Commentary by Mustafa K. Anuar

HOLDING political leaders to account for what they say and do publicly is expected of concerned citizens in a thriving democracy.

This is the way for the constituents to ensure the representatives they have voted into power will keep their electoral promise of generally working for the common good of the people and society.

In other words, the votes that the politicians have won at the polls do not give them a blank cheque to do almost whatever they wish until the next elections. They are supposed to be transparent and answerable to their constituents all the time.

Otherwise, it is the democratic right of the people to comment on, criticise, ridicule or even condemn the politicians who have steered away from their promised path, or are seen to be doing something that is inimical to the people’s collective interest.

Members of the public also have the right to reprehend political leaders who, through their public misconduct, smear the image of their public office or smudge the standing of the country in the eyes of the international community.

With this in mind, the punishment – a RM2,000 fine – meted out by Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court recently to a retiree, who was found to have “insulted” Minister of Health Dr Adham Baba, may have far-reaching implications for democracy and human rights in the country.

In making public criticism of officials, what constitutes “insult”? Does it provoke hate, threatens personal safety, or causes damage or physical harm? Is it defamatory?

If it doesn’t do any of the above, then surely concerned citizens have the democratic right to criticise or even make, say, a snide remark against individuals occupying public office.

To punish a comment or criticism made by members of the public regarding certain politicians is to criminalise such an act. This is a dangerous precedent.

Ruling politicians should not be insulated from public scrutiny and accountability if democracy is to run its course. It would be a travesty of justice.

It is the nature of public office that it often exposes itself to public outcry, criticism and even insults that do not incite hate or cause physical harm. Consummate politicians are aware of this fact.

US president Donald Trump, for instance, has been lampooned in media commentaries, cartoons and talk shows for his public misdemeanour and certain speeches that are regarded as an affront to democratic principles.

Embittered by such unfavourable criticisms, Trump did try to marginalise and even scold media outlets that are critical of him. However, these media organisations soldiered on, as it is within their democratic right to be critical of the president.

During his first term as prime minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad was called various names, such as Mahafiraun, at the height of the Reformasi movement triggered by the ouster of Anwar Ibrahim from government in the late 1990s. Mahathir might have been unhappy with the name calling, but he moved on.

Politicians are expected to be made of sterner stuff to withstand such name calling, scathing criticism and satire to survive the rough world of politics. The less charitable would call it the thick skin of politicians.

The voice of the people must be heard in a democracy. – July 5, 2020.